The SIG P228 series is nothing more than a compact version of the well-liked and hugely successful P226 family. In its compact form, the P228 sports a shorter barrel assembly which allows for a shorter slide - these changes, in effect, making for a shorter overall weapon, hence its "compact" classification. While shorter in length, the P228 still retained a large magazine capacity which is often an appreciated quality in a handgun - particularly semi-automatic in nature. The P228 first appeared in 1988 though it has since been succeeded by the equally-compact P229 series on the SIG-Sauer lines. The weapon is known under the designation of M11 in the US military inventory while its use is accordingly global through various other armies and police agencies.

Overall, the P228 retains much of the form and all of the function of the preceding P226 series. Internally, the P228 actually shared much with the preceding P225 and P226 series of handguns. The slide encapsulates the barrel, chamber, firing pin and hammer to which the latter protrudes at the rear some. Sights are iron in nature and located at the rear and front of the slide - a notched rear being matched with the front post to show the user the weapon is in line with the intended target. The pistol grip and trigger unit are conventionally held under the slide with the curved trigger being set in a squared-off trigger ring. The grip is stocky and provides a firm hand hold while the rear sides of the slide are ribbed for gripping. Controls are within easy reach of the firing hand's thumb and includes the magazine release (mounted to either side of the frame as needed) and the safety. A slide release under the slide sides allows the weapon to be disassembled for cleaning. The firing action is a recoil-operated Double-Action/Single-Action (DA/SA) or Double-Action Only (DOA). Management of the slide introduces the first cartridge into the chamber which can be witnessed through the ejection port during the action. The P228 is chambered for the ubiquitous 9x19mm Parabellum cartridge and makes use of a 13-round detachable box magazine inserted through the base of the grip. The slide of the P228 is fabricated from forged carbon steel for maximum robustness. In all, the P228 continues the fineness of the SIG line of hand guns - both in style and functionality.

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Image Credit: Left side profile view of the SIG Sauer P228 semi-automatic pistol

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